Cholecalciferol
What is Cholecalciferol?
Cholecalciferol is the INCI name for vitamin D3, a fat-soluble secosteroid molecule naturally synthesized in human skin through ultraviolet B radiation exposure on 7-dehydrocholesterol, or obtained from lanolin processed from sheep's wool. Chemically, it features a steroid backbone with a broken B-ring, enabling its role as a provitamin converted to active hormonal forms in the body. In cosmetics, it belongs to the skin conditioning category, primarily functioning as an emollient. It works by forming a protective barrier on the skin surface, reducing transepidermal water loss, and enhancing lipid organization in the stratum corneum. This helps maintain the skin's barrier integrity, supporting its natural suppleness without penetrating deeply in topical applications.
Roles in Formulation
This ingredient serves the following purposes in cosmetic formulations:
Benefits
Supports skin softness by acting as an emollient.
Promotes smoothness through moisture retention.
Enhances skin flexibility with barrier protection.
Who It's For
A quick guide for who this ingredient may suit (and who should be cautious).
| Who May Benefit | Who Should Avoid |
|---|---|
| Individuals with dry skin seeking conditioning effects. | Users preferring low-hazard rated ingredients. |
| People using emollient-rich moisturizers. | People with sensitivities to animal-derived components. |
| Those incorporating vitamin-derived ingredients in routines. | Those avoiding high EWG-rated substances. |
Safety Notes
- Rated high hazard by EWG due to potential concerns in use.
- Non-comedogenic, unlikely to clog pores.
Frequently Asked Questions about Cholecalciferol
What is cholecalciferol in skincare?
It is vitamin D3, used as a skin conditioning agent to maintain softness and smoothness.
Is cholecalciferol comedogenic?
It has a comedogenic rating of 0, indicating low risk of pore clogging.
Why is cholecalciferol EWG-rated high?
EWG assigns it a hazard score of 5 based on use restrictions and data gaps.